Abstract

The present article aims to present the current challenges of pediatric psychology in the scope of the training, research and intervention. After a brief historical description of the different areas that are gathered in pediatric psychology as a theoretical-scientific field, we analyze the training of professionals in this area, observing the constant process of de-constructing traditional knowledge though not denying it as instituted scientific knowledge, and integrating it in the intervention and or research to respond to the challenges that are faced by the professional in the pediatric context. From this perspective, we point out the necessity to develop the abilities and competencies needed to the intervention with children, their families and the health team. The actions of the pediatric psychologist must necessarily be endorsed by the goals of humanization, integrity and the promotion of the health, since, in pediatric health intervention the dissociation of interventions directed toward the physical, mental and social sphere is not any long accepted. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract)